Auto-gradient combinations for pixel compensation

ABSTRACT

A luminaire adapted to apply an auto-gradient effect across pixels has an interface coupled by a connection to a controller. The controller has electronic circuitry that receives a predetermined start light parameter for a start pixel of a luminaire and receives a predetermined end light parameter for an end pixel of the first luminaire, the predetermined end light parameter greater than the predetermined start light parameter. The controller circuitry then automatically interpolates a gradient effect for a middle light parameter of each of a plurality of middle pixels of the luminaire based on the start and end predetermined light parameters. The controller circuitry then outputs control signals having the start, end and middle light parameters to the start, end and middle light pixels, respectively, through the connection and to the interface.

RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

This patent is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/222,832 filed Apr. 5, 2021, entitled AUTO-GRADIENT COMBINATIONS FORPIXEL COMPENSATION, which claims priority to and incorporates byreference U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/006,353, titledAUTO-GRADIENT PIXEL, filed Apr. 7, 2020.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHTS AND TRADE DRESS

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialwhich is subject to copyright protection. This patent document may showand/or describe matter which is or may become trade dress of the owner.The copyright and trade dress owner has no objection to the facsimilereproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure as it appears in thePatent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwisereserves all copyright and trade dress rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND Field

The disclosure relates to systems and processes for compensation oflight produced by artificial light sources and light sensed by cameras.

Description of the Related Art

Various types of artificial light sources are currently used in motionpicture and television fields or industries. Systems and processes areused to control compensation of light produced by artificial lightsources and light sensed by digital camera light sensors, or lightsensed by conventional film cameras using conventional film stock sothat the resulting object image light mimics natural light when viewedby humans on media such as television, motion pictures and computermonitors. One goal of the present systems and processes is to compensatefor artificial light sources and for digital camera sensors, as well asfor conventional cameras/film stock so that the object image shown onthe display appears to the human viewer to have the same hue, intensity,and saturation value as does the actual object when illuminated bynatural light.

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) in the form of LED strips have been used inthe motion picture and television fields. The strips are sometimesreferred to as tapes because they often have a thin, narrow substrate.Plural strips are sometimes assembled into an array, referred to as anLED strip array. Plural strips may also be joined end to end, or bussed.

The light output from typically available luminaires varies in intensityand color, depending on the technology used, such as incandescent,fluorescent, LED, high intensity discharge, etc. Even within the sametechnology variations from one luminaire to another are common. Forexample, variations in color and intensity of light are very noticeableeven when comparing a new bulb to a same technology bulb made by thesame manufacturer and that is at or near its end of life. Severalfixtures from differing technologies are often used to illuminate amovie set and the people and objects on the set. In recording any sceneon the set, one typical goal is to have the light look as if it isemitted from an identical or similar source. In order to achieve this“similar source look” lighting technicians typically rely onconventional mechanical devices that assist in diminishing the luminancefrom a particular light source, or they modify the color emitted and asrequired for a particular shot.

However, conventional such LED lighting products suffer from severaldrawbacks or problems. Those problems include the need for complicatedcontrol systems to achieve a sufficient level of pixel control of theLEDs. The complication of the control system is multiplied whencontrolling multiple LED strips. This complication is further compoundedwhen adjusting intensity, color temperature, correlated colortemperature (CCT), saturation, accent color and tint of pixels of eachLED strip as desired.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed incolor. Copies of this patent or patent application publication withcolor drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and paymentof the necessary fee.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a lighting system for applying anauto-gradient effect.

FIG. 2 is a schematic top perspective view of a lighting system forapplying a linear auto-gradient effect.

FIG. 3 is a schematic top perspective view of a lighting system forapplying a long fixture auto-gradient effect.

FIG. 4 is a schematic top perspective view of a lighting system forapplying a tilt auto-gradient effect.

FIG. 5A is a graphical illustration of a light intensity gradient basedon the light intensity parameters of the start and end pixels.

FIG. 5B is a graphical illustration of a second light intensity gradientbased on the light intensity parameters of the start and end pixels.

FIG. 5C is a graphical illustration of a correlated color temperature(CCT) gradient based on the light CCT parameters of the start and endpixels.

FIG. 5D is a graphical illustration of a saturation gradient based onthe light saturation parameters of the start and end pixels.

FIG. 5E is a graphical illustration of a hue gradient based on the lighthue parameters of the start and end pixels.

FIG. 5F is a graphical illustration of a tint gradient based on thelight tint parameters of the start and end pixels.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing an operating environment or a process forapplying an auto-gradient effect across pixels.

Throughout this description, elements appearing in figures are assignedthree-digit or four-digit reference designators, where the two leastsignificant digits are specific to the element and the one or two mostsignificant digit is the figure number where the element is firstintroduced. An element that is not described in conjunction with afigure may be presumed to have the same characteristics and function asa previously-described element having the same reference designator orthe same two least significant digits.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This patent describes luminaires, systems and processes for applying agradient effect across pixels (light emitting zones) of either a singleluminaire (with multiple zones) or multiple luminaires (each withmultiple zones) in the same system. Each luminaire consists of somenumber of pixels. The minimum number of pixels needed to apply agradient is three pixels, as a start pixel and end pixel are needed tointerpolate the data for the gradient, which would be applied to theremaining pixels (i.e., at least one) beyond the start and end pixels.The gradient could be a gradient of one or more of several parameters,including, but not limited to, intensity, color temperature, saturation,hue, and tint. Implementing a gradient of one of the aforementioned doesnot preclude the implementation of another. Gradients of severalparameters may be applied simultaneously.

The process may be performed by a luminaire or system having a gradientmode that enables the practical use of multiple pixels in local mode andfurther empowers digital multiplex interface (DMX) controlled pixel use.This feature auto-calculates the values of several middle pixels byevaluating the first and last pixels. Within the luminaire and without afull pixel controller, the middle pixels are averaged to values inbetween first and last, creating a gradient having gradual transitions.A user can adjust intensity, correlated color temperature (CCT),saturation, accent color and tint as desired.

The system may implement the gradient mode in a single device orluminaire that includes the controller, and interface to the pixels andthe pixels, such as in a light strip, light bar etc. The calculations toachieve the gradient can take place internally in the fixture that canprovide the gradient desired. Start and end pixel light parameters canbe entered on an input device and sent to a controller located withinthe luminaire that automatically calculates the gradient effect for themiddle pixels. In some cases, the controller is in an external device,such as a dimmer or a DMX board, that can provide the gradient desired.The gradient is interpolated by the controller without the use of a fullpixel controller. The controller may be a mini-controller in the sensethat it is not a full pixel controller.

Term “luminaire” refers to a complete light source, a light emittingdevice or a light fixture including the controller. The term luminairemay refer to light emitting diodes (LEDs), LED strips, LED tapes, LEDstrip arrays, and LED strip busses.

In the lighting field, the term intensity refers to the brightness of alight source, the term luminance refers to the intensity of light perunit area in a given direction. The various white colors associated witha specific Kelvin (K) temperature are typically referred to ascorrelated color temperature (CCT). Also, the term “color” refers to andincludes the concepts of “hue” or what is generally referred to as thecolor of something, the intensity, and the degree of “saturation” of acolor, which means the degree or amount of white light that is mixedwith some other color. Tint is a mixture of a color with white, whichincreases lightness. A pixel has LEDs for mixing colors. The Pixels mayinclude red, green, blue (RGB), amber (A), cool white and/or warm whiteLEDs. In some cases, the LEDs of a pixel are only one color or are onlyRGB.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , there is shown a block diagram of a lightingsystem 100 for applying an auto-gradient effect across pixels of atleast one luminaire. The system 100 has input device 105 connectedthrough connection 106 to controller 110 which is connected throughconnection 111 to luminaire 120. Luminaire 120 is shown with 8 pixelstotal, though many more may be used. Interface 112 is attached to eachof the 8 pixels that are pixel 1 or 121 to pixel 8 or 128. Each ofpixels 1-8 outputs corresponding light or light emitting zones of light131-138 which illuminates zone 140 between start frame 141 and end frame142. The luminaire and frames may be oriented horizontally, at an angelor vertically.

Pixel 1 is a start pixel and pixel 8 is an end pixel. Zone 140 may befor illuminating a scene (e.g., one or more frames) between frames 141and 142. A frame is a two dimensional or three dimensional image at apoint in time. A scene is a sequence of frames over time such as a sceneof video images. Gradient effect 150 is the light parameter change fromlight 131 to light 138. It is based on start, end and middle lightparameters determined by controller 110 using the inputs from input 105.The gradient effect includes an interpolated gradient effect for middlelight parameters of middle pixels 122-127 based on the light parametersreceived for start pixel 1 and end pixel 8.

The input 105 is in a different device than controller 110. Thecontroller 110 and connection 111 are shown separate from the luminaire120. However, the controller 110, connection 111, interface 112 andpixels may all be part of a single device that is luminaire 120. Thesystem 100 may include more than one set of controllers, connections andluminaires. In some cases, controller 110 controls multiple luminaires120 using multiple connections 111. The system 100 may also include fullcontrol capable pixel controller 114 which sends control signals tofully control of each pixel of a luminaire without the use of controller110.

The input 105 allows a user to set the light parameter of the startpixel 1 and end pixel 8 of luminaire 120. Those parameters are sent bythe input device on connection 106 to the controller 110. Thoseparameters may be the only data sent by the input to the controller.Input 106 does not have the ability to send control signals directly toluminaire 120 that fully control of each pixel, without the use ofcontroller 110 to extrapolate the middle pixel gradient.

The input 105 can have a graphical user interface (GUI) that allows theuser to set and view the start and end parameters via a combination ofencoders, buttons, and a display. The view of the parameters can includeviewing of the calculated parameters of the middle pixels and/or ofgradient 150 which are provided by controller 110 back throughconnection 106 to the input device. Other hardware could be used for theinput, such as a capacitive or resistive touch screen or potentiometers,for example or DMX compatible controllers.

The start and end pixel light parameters are received by the controller110 and used to interpolate a gradient by calculating the lightparameters of middle pixels. Controller 110 may be located within theluminaire to automatically interpolated gradient 150 for the middlepixels 2-7. The controller 110 allows a user to efficiently creategradient 150 by setting at the input 105 only the light parameter of thestart pixel 1 and end pixel 8 of luminaire 120. Upon interpolating thegradient, controller 110 sends control signals having the lightparameters of the start, end and interpolated middle pixels through theconnection 111 to the interface. The control signals control the pixels1-8 to output lights 131-138, respectively.

The control signals may control the amount of power going to variouspixels or LEDs of pixels, such as by controlling switches or powercircuitry. The control signals may be an amount of electrical power topower the pixels or LEDs of the pixels. In another case, the controlsignals limit the numbers of LEDs that turn on for each pixel in theluminaire to illuminate a scene. For example, on pixel A all LEDs willturn on at 100% intensity to create Intensity A=100%, on pixel Z 15% ofthe LEDs will turn on at full intensity to create Intensity Z=25%. Thecontrol signals created can automatically turn on the respective numberof LEDs (75%, 50%, 25%, etc.) at full brightness on each of the middlepixels to create a natural light drop-off.

The interpolated gradient can be used to create linear, non-linear,curve, exponential, and logarithmic gradients. The user may set at theinput and the controller 110 may interpolate gradient 150 for multiplelight parameters such as intensity (e.g., light brightness), colortemperature, saturation, hue, tint, color frequency, CCT (e.g., warmwhite to cool white) and color gradients. The user may set at the inputand the controller may interpolate gradient 150 for multiple luminaires.The multiple luminaires may be controlled with multiple lightparameters.

The controller may be implemented by hardware logic, software or acombination of both. In some cases, it is not software but only hardwarelogic such as PCB, electrical circuits, traces, ICs, ROM and/or otherhardware circuitry. It may be electronic circuitry, such as electricalcircuits, resistors, transistors, inductors, capacitors, traces, ICs,ROM and/or other hardware electronic circuitry to perform the functionsdescribed.

Connection 111 may have a forward connection for sending control or datasignals from controller 110 to the interface 112 to control the pixels1-8 to output light 131-138. This connection may also send electricalpower to the interface for illuminating the pixels. The connection 111may have backward connection for providing unique identifications of thepixels from the interface to the controller.

The interface 112 connects connection 111 to each of the pixels so thatthe control signals from the controller are received by each pixel. Insome cases, the connection 111 and interface 112 are both part of theluminaire, such as where the controller is mounted to the interface.Also, the connection 111 may start as one connection at controller 110and then split to becomes 8 connections that are each attached to apixel. In another case, connection 111 is 8 separate connections fromthe controller to each of the pixels.

Each pixel may be one or more light emitting zones, such as one or moreLEDs. Each pixel may be uniquely identified to the controller using theconnection. Each pixel may have a unique identifier (ID). A pixel couldbe an entire light engine with multiple LEDs that act as a unit whencontrolled to change color, intensity or other light parameters, such asby receiving multiple control signals from controller 110. These pixels(light engines) are then tiled together into pixels 1-8 to achieve thegradient desired. In other cases, a subset of pixels 1-8 may be used toform a separate gradient by picking start and/or end pixels withinpixels 1-8. For example, a pixel can be a single emitter (e.g., LED)that responds independently of others within the string or array of LEDsbased on its single control signal. In this case, the single pixel maybe the start and end pixel and a subset of pixels 1-8. The subset can beused to set gradients by using more than just two color points of startpixel 1 and end pixel 8.

In one system, the controller 110 polls the system 100 to identifyluminaires and pixels in the system. The controller may do this via aserial data pair of connection(s) 111 that connects the luminaire(s) tothe controller, manually, or by other means. The input 105 has agraphical user interface (GUI) that allows the user to set and viewparameters via a combination of encoders, buttons, and a display. Powerand data can be transferred in the same cable 111, although this is notnecessary.

Instead of full pixel control, using controller 110's auto-gradientpixel control allows a limited amount of control, such as more than nopixel control but less than full pixel control, in exchange forsimplicity and speed. For example, in situations with no DMX control,there is normally a very limited set of controls (buttons, encoders,etc.) the use of which exacerbates the cumbersomeness of trying tocontrol the gradient of middle pixels. Also, full pixel control can becumbersome in many situations, especially those situations withoutadvanced controllers. Thus, using the system 100 provides a limitedcontrol of interpolating gradient 150 which uses less power, usesless/cheaper equipment and is more efficient, than full pixel control.It uses a limited set of start and end pixel controls at input 105 toautomatically set middle pixel values. The system also greatlysimplifies pixel control for the user by requiring user to set onlystart and end pixel parameters to get the gradient effect. The systemaccomplishes multiple auto-gradient combinations for pixel compensation,such as to compensate for the artificial light source pixels.

Hence the system 100 allows user without complicated or expensivesystems to achieve some level of pixel control. System 100 can providegradient pixel control in general that is useful in film lighting.Examples include situations wherein a light is directed at an actor andthat light is to “wrap” around the actor's face, changing intensity asit wraps, as well as others.

FIG. 2 is a schematic top perspective view of a lighting system 200 forapplying a linear auto-gradient effect across pixels of at least oneluminaire. The system 200 has input device 105 connected throughconnection 106 to controller 210. Controller 210 and pixels A-Z are partof luminaire 220. Controller 210 is connected to each of the pixels A-Z.This connection may be through an interface. Each of the pixels outputscorresponding light zones of light A-Z which illuminates total zone oflight 240 from left to right between start frame 241 and end frame 242.Camera 202 is for imaging frames 241-242 during a scene having ahorizontal zone 240 that is illuminated by system 200.

System 200 has distance 261 from the luminaire to first frame 205 atlocation A1 and distance 262 from the luminaire to second frame 206 atlocation Z1. Distance 261 is longer than distance 262. Path 207 leadsfrom frame 205 to frame 207, such as a path an actor may walk or anobject may move along on a set or in a scene during three dimensional ascene being illuminated by system 200. Camera 202 records the images(e.g., video) during that transition of path 207 from frame 205 atdistance 261 to frame 206 at distance 262, by recording the imageshaving the actor or object in the frames along path 207.

For system 200 (e.g., in an air ambient), light intensity is inverselyproportional to the square root of the distance from the pixels to theframe being imaged. In the case where luminaire 220 is to be a soft flatillumination source, with all pixels at the same illumination intensitywill be brighter at the second frame 206 than at the first frame 205because frame 206 is closer to the luminaire than frame 205.

However, system 200 can be used to reduce the illumination (e.g., lightintensity or light parameter) gradient from pixel A to pixel Z of pixelsof the luminaire proportional to the change in distance from distance261 to distance 262 so that the intensity along path 207 will appear tomaintain a constant illumination as the actor or object moves closer tothe camera along the path.

For example, the user or another system may calculate the intensitydesired at frame 205 and 206 to maintain a constant illumination alongpath 207 and input those intensities into input 105 as start and endlight parameters. When these parameters are received by controller 210,it uses the input parameters to calculate a linear light gradient 250 oflight A to light Z based on start, end and middle light parametersdetermined by controller 210 as equation (1):iNp=iAp−((Np−1)*(iAp−iZp)*(1/(Zp−1)))  (1)

where:

-   -   iNp=Intensity of any pixel    -   iAp=Intensity Pixel A    -   iZp=Intensity Pixel Z    -   Np=Given pixel    -   Nz=Total Pixels Z

Thus, the controller is able to interpolate a gradient effect for middlelight parameters of middle pixels A+1 to Z−1 based on the parameter ofthe start pixel A and end pixel Z.

For one example the user inputs:

-   -   Intensity A=100%    -   Intensity Z=25%    -   Pixel A=1    -   Pixel Z=8

Thus, for pixel 5, the controller interpolates:

-   -   Intensity 5=100%−((5−4)×(75%×( 1/7))); or    -   Intensity 5=100%−(4×10.7413%)=57.14%

Thus, during movement of an actor of object along a path such as path207, system 200 provides all the benefits noted above for system 100.

It is also possible to calculate a linear light gradient 250 of light Ato light Z based on start, end and middle light parameters determined bycontroller 210 using an equation similar to equation (1) above for anon-linear auto-gradient calculation of intermediate pixels fornon-linear, curves, radii, S-curves, exponential, and/or logarithmicgradients. There are always several ways to calculate the non-linearauto-gradient calculation using spherical trigonometry. The results, andhow the non-linear auto-gradient calculation may be used, are subject tothe “Inverse Square Law” of light. The physical property of lightilluminating a surface diminishes by the square of the distance from thesource of illumination such that for a source strength S, the intensityat the surface of a sphere with area 4πr² surrounding S is I=S/4πr²,which is ¼ the intensity at 2r and 1/9 the intensity at 3r as comparedthe intensity I at radius r. that is, the illumination energy twice asfar from the source is spread out over four times the area, henceone-fourth the intensity.

By using an auto-gradient calculated illumination source or of theluminaire, the intensity of the illumination can be changed tocompensation for the loss (or gain) of illumination. A camera can changeits exposure setting to compensation for the gain and loss ofillumination. In “auto-exposure” or auto-gradient calculation mode witha flash illumination, when the subject is far away (e.g., at frame 205or 405), the flash illuminates the room and the subject. When thesubject is close to the camera (e.g., at frame 206 or 406), the subject“looks” the same, but the room in the background (e.g., path 307) is nowblack. This is because the intensity of the flash on the subject's faceas increased by the distance he has moved closer, squared. Doing thisduring a filming of a scene in a movie would look very strange, and notat all natural. However, by fixing the exposure on the camera, andcreating an auto-gradient of intensity such that the increase anddecreases according to the square of the distance from the light sourceas explained herein, the “appearance” of an even exposure can beachieved. The appearance can also be manipulated using auto-gradientcalculation for artistic effect, such as appearing to walk out ofdarkness into light (e.g., walk from frame 205 or 405 to frame 206 or406), or vice-versa. Since all colors of light are subject to the same“Inverse Square Law”, the same formula that might be applied tointensity, can be applied to intensity of different colors to another,all colors (white light) to no colors (blackness), ergo the similaritiesof intensity gradients to CCT, tint and hue gradients. People don'tnotice this in photography during daylight, or at night, because theSun, Moon, and stars are so far away that the change in distance, evenof a few miles, is nothing relative to the 250,000 miles of the Moon,the 93,000,000 miles of the Sun and the billions of miles of the starts.One purpose of auto-gradient calculation control of the luminaire inlighting is to manipulate the limitations of camera, film or digitalsensor, and the use of artificial sources to make the artifice of moviesand photography appear to be more “real”. Often this a not a matter of aspecific calculation or series of equations, but by “tweaking” accordingto the eye of the artist and inputting the proper start, intermediateand/or end light parameters according to the tweaking.

FIG. 3 is a schematic top perspective view of a lighting system 300 forapplying a long fixture auto-gradient effect across pixels of at leasttwo luminaire. The system 300 has input device 105 connected throughconnection 106 to controllers of luminaires 310 and 311 having pixelsA-B and B-Z, respectively. The controllers and pixels are part ofluminaires. The controllers are connected to each of the pixels of eachluminaire, such as through an interface. Each of the pixels outputscorresponding light zones A-B and B-Z which illuminate total zone oflight 340 from left to right between start frame 341 and end frame 364of luminaire 310; and between start frame 362 and end frame 342 ofluminaire 311. Intermediate pixel B and intermediate light B may be thesame end pixel of luminaire 310 and start pixel of luminaire 311. Camera202 is for imaging frames 341-342 during a scene having a horizontalzone 340 that is illuminated by system 300.

System 300 has distance 361 from the luminaire 310 to first frame 305 atlocation A1; distance 363 from the luminaires 310 and 311 tointermediate frame 308 at location B1; and distance 365 from theluminaire 311 to second frame 306 at location Z1. Distances 361 and 365are longer than distance 363. Path 307 leads from frame 305, throughframe 308 and to frame 307, such as a path along a wall, screen or flataction area of a three dimensional set or in a scene being illuminatedby system 300 during a scene. Camera 202 records the images includingframes along path 307 at different distances 361 to 363 to 365 fromframe 305 to frame 306.

System 300 is in an air ambient, so light intensity is inverselyproportional to the square root of the distance from the pixels to theframe being imaged. With all pixels at the same illumination intensitywill be brighter at the frame 306 than at either of frame 305 and 306because frame 308 is closer to the luminaires than the other two frames.It will also be brighter at frame 306 than frame 305 because frame 306is closer.

However, system 300 can be used to reduce the illumination (e.g., lightintensity or light parameter) gradient from pixel A to pixel B and frompixel Z to pixel B of pixels of the luminaires 310 and 311 proportionalto the change in distance from distance 361 to 363 to 364 so that theintensity along path 307 will appear to maintain an even, linearillumination area along the wall, screen or flat action area of the setor scene.

For example, the intensity (light parameters) desired at frames 305, 308and 306 can be input into input 105 by the user to maintain a constantillumination along path 307. Although one input device 105 is shown forboth luminaires, one input can be used for each luminaire.

When the light parameters desired at frames 305 and 308 are received bycontroller 310, it uses the input parameters to calculate a linear lightgradient 350 of light A to light B based on start, end and middle lightparameters determined by controller 310 as equation (2):iNp=iAp−((Np−1)*(iAp−iBp)*(1/(Bp−1)))  (2)

where:

-   -   iNp=Intensity of any pixel    -   iAp=Intensity Pixel A    -   iBp=Intensity Pixel B    -   Np=Given pixel    -   BP=Number Pixel B

Also, when the light parameters desired at frames 308 and 306 arereceived by controller 311, it uses the input parameters to calculate alinear light gradient 351 of light B to light Z based on start, end andmiddle light parameters determined by controller 311 as equation (3):iN1p=iBp−((N1p−Bp)*(iBp−iZp)*(1/(Zp−Bp)))  (3):

where:

-   -   iN1p=Intensity of any pixel    -   iBp=Intensity Pixel B    -   iZ1p=Intensity Pixel Z    -   N1p=Given pixel    -   Bp=number of Pixel B    -   Zp=Last pixel

Thus, the controllers are able to interpolate two gradient effects formiddle light parameters of middle pixels A+1 to B−1 and middle pixelsB+1 to Z−1 based on the light parameters of the pixels A, B and Z.

For one example the user inputs:

-   -   Intensity A=100%    -   Intensity B=25%    -   Intensity Z=90%    -   Pixel A=1    -   Pixel B=5    -   Pixel Z=12

Thus, for pixel 7, the controller interpolates:

-   -   Intensity 7=25%−((7−5)×(25%−90%×( 1/7))); or    -   Intensity 7=25%−(2×−9.3%)=43.57%

For a flat surface such as that along path 370, system 300 provides allthe benefits noted above for system 100 or 200.

In some cases, the luminaires 310 and 311 are a single luminaire thatextends from pixel A through pixel B and to pixel Z. In this case, thecontroller may be single controller and the connections to the input maybe a single connection. For example, a single luminaire may have a bendat pixel B so that distances 361 and 365 are longer than distance 363.

FIG. 4 is a schematic top perspective view of a lighting system 400 forapplying a tilt auto-gradient effect across pixels of at least oneluminaire. The system 400 has input device 105 connected throughconnection 106 to the controller of luminaire 420 having pixels A-Z.Each of the pixels outputs corresponding light zones of light A-Z whichilluminates total zone of light 340 from top to bottom between startframe 441 and end frame 442. Camera 202 is for imaging frames 441-442during a scene having a vertical zone 440 that is illuminated by system400.

System 400 has distance 461 from the luminaire to first frame 405 atvertical location A1 and distance 462 from the luminaire to second frame406 at vertical location Z1. Distance 461 is longer than distance 462.Path 407 leads from frame 405 to frame 407, such as a path between twoactors an objects A1 and Z1 on a set or in a scene during a threedimensional scene being illuminated by system 400. Camera 202 recordsthe images including frames along path 407 at different distance 461 toframe 405 and distance 462 to frame 406.

In the situation of system 400 which is very common in photography, thephysical limitations of the walls and/or ceiling prevent raising theluminaire high enough to place it equidistant between the two subjectsat frames 405 and 406. System 400 is in an air ambient, so that with allpixels at the same illumination intensity will be brighter at the frame406 than at frame 405 because frame 406 is closer to the luminaire thanthe other frame 405.

However, system 400 can be used to reduce the illumination (e.g., lightintensity or light parameter) gradient from pixel A to pixel Z of pixelsof the luminaire proportional to the change in distance from distance461 to distance 462 so that the intensity along path 407 will appear tomaintain a constant and equal illumination of the two actors or objectsalong path 407.

Using a linear gradient such that pixel A is brighter than pixel Z, anactor at frame 406 and actor at frame 405 will appear to be the samebrightness. This will look more natural to the camera and human eye. Forexample, the intensity (light parameters) desired at frames 405 and 406can be input into input 105 by the user to maintain a constantillumination at both of those frames and along path 307. When theseparameters are received by the controller of luminaire 420, it uses theinput parameters to calculate a linear light gradient 450 of light A tolight Z based on start, end and interpolated middle light parametersdetermined by controller as noted above for FIG. 2 or 3 , but in thiscase for pixels A-Z oriented in a vertical fashion instead of along ahorizontal space.

Thus, the controller is able to interpolate a gradient effect forvertical middle light parameters of middle pixels A+1 to Z−1 based onthe parameter of the start pixel A and end pixel Z. Thus, for two actorsor objects at the frames 405 and 406 and any frame along path 407,system 400 provides all the benefits noted above for system 100.

System 200, 300 or 400 may be an example implementation of system 100.Systems 200, 300 or 400 may be combined into a system, such as into anembodiment of system 100.

FIG. 5A is a graphical illustration of a light intensity gradient 500including an interpolated gradient effect for middle light intensityparameters of middle pixels based on the light intensity parameters ofthe start and end pixels. Intensity gradient 500 shows 1 luminaire with4 pixels. The gradient effect for the middle pixels of gradient 500 maybe an intensity interpolation example for middle pixels (here as forpixels 1.2 and 1.3) used for a light parameter of any one of FIGS. 1-4 .In the case of gradient 500 the pixels have light intensity parametersas follows:

-   -   1.1=100% illumination (pixel A)    -   1.2=75% illumination (auto calculated)    -   1.3=50% illumination (auto calculated)    -   1.4=25% illumination (pixel z)

FIG. 5B is a graphical illustration of a second light intensity gradient510 including an interpolated gradient effect for middle light intensityparameters of middle pixels based on the light intensity parameters ofthe start and end pixels. Intensity gradient 510 shows 2 luminaires with4 pixels each. The gradient effect for the middle pixels of gradient 510may be an intensity interpolation example for middle pixels (here as forpixels 1.2 to 2.3) used for a light parameter of any one of FIGS. 1-4 .It may specifically apply the two luminaires of FIG. 3 . In the case ofgradient 510 the pixels have light intensity parameters as follows:

-   -   1.1=100% illumination (pixel A)    -   1.2=90% illumination (auto calculated)    -   1.3=80% illumination (auto calculated)    -   1.4=70% illumination (auto calculated)    -   2.1=60% illumination (auto calculated)    -   2.2=50% illumination (auto calculated)    -   2.3=40% illumination (auto calculated)    -   2.4=30% illumination (pixel z)

FIG. 5C is a graphical illustration of a correlated color temperature(CCT) gradient 520 including an interpolated gradient effect for middlelight CCT parameters of middle pixels based on the light CCT parametersof the start and end pixels. CCT gradient 520 shows 1 luminaire with 4pixels. The gradient effect for the middle pixels of gradient 520 may bea CCT interpolation example for middle pixels (here as for pixels 1.2and 1.3) used for a light parameter of any one of FIGS. 1-4 . In thecase of gradient 520 the pixels have CCT light parameters that can bebeneficial for lighting a scene to be imaged or filmed by a camera.

In one example, the CCT at IDs 1.1 to 1.4 of CCT gradient 520 are usefulfor filming a scene of a house interior during daytime. Light enteringthe window from the outside is sunlight (in this solar system) which hasa CCT of 5900K midday (varies according to time of day). The Interior ofthe house may be illuminated by tungsten light bulbs (2700K) (orflorescent of 5600K or LED light bulbs of any CCT). A person illuminatedmostly by the light from the window (5900K) moves with the camera intothe interior of the house where he is lit predominately by the interiorlight sources, the tungsten light bulbs (2700K). While passing throughthe transition area (e.g., path 207 or 407), he is lit with a mix ofthese two sources. A fill light or luminaire could use a CCT gradient520 to match the natural mix of these two CCT sources at either end, andthrough the transition area by inputting (e.g., receiving at thecontroller) light from the window (5900K) as a start light parameter andthe interior light (2700K) as the end light parameter for the luminaireso the scene being filmed while the person moves “looks” like morenatural lighting to the camera. Using CCT gradient 520 to provide aluminaire that has a CCT gradient to match the natural mix of these twoCCT sources as the start and end light parameters, and through thetransition area of the middle pixels creates a scene with artificiallight that looks more natural to the camera.

In another example, CCT at ID 1.1 is 2000K, CCT at ID 1.4 is 4500K tosimulate or enhance the gradient created by the Sun while its setting.In a third example, CCT at ID 1.1 is 3200K, CCT at ID 1.4 6500K tosimulate or enhance when an actor is going from indoors (lit byincandescent light) to outdoors (during a sunny day). Thus, using CCTgradient 520 to provide a luminaire that has a CCT gradient to match thenatural mix of these two CCT sources as the start and end lightparameters, and through the transition area of the middle pixels,creates a scene with artificial light looks like more natural lightingto the camera.

FIG. 5D is a graphical illustration of a saturation gradient 530including an interpolated gradient effect for middle light saturationgradient parameters of middle pixels based on the light saturationparameters of the start and end pixels. Saturation gradient 530 shows 1luminaire with 4 pixels. The gradient effect for the middle pixels ofgradient 530 may be a saturation gradient interpolation example formiddle pixels (here as for pixels 1.2 and 1.3) used for a lightparameter of any one of FIGS. 1-4 . In the case of gradient 530 thepixels have saturation gradient light parameters that can be beneficialfor lighting a scene to be imaged or filmed by a camera.

In one example, the saturation gradient at IDs 1.1 to 1.4 of CCTgradient 530 are useful for filming a scene of and interior of aspaceship during the daytime on planet in a solar system with a red sun.The light through the ship's view port is predominately Red. Moving fromthe viewing port (red light) to the ship interior (LED lighting at CCT5900K to mimic earth sunlight), a fill light using a desaturationgradient could look more natural (or a viewing window into a viruscleansing room illuminated by a strong blue or violet light). In thisexample, saturation at ID 1.1 is 100% as entered as the start pixellight parameter, saturation at ID 1.4 is 25% as entered as the end pixellight parameter for gradient 530 to simulate or enhance fall-off ofcolor light as the subject moves away from a colored light source. Thus,using gradient 530 to provide a luminaire that has a saturation gradientto match the natural mix of these two saturation sources as the startand end light parameters, and through the transition area of the middlepixels, creates a scene with artificial light looks like more naturallighting to the camera.

FIG. 5E is a graphical illustration of a hue gradient 540 including aninterpolated gradient effect for middle light hue gradient parameters ofmiddle pixels based on the light hue parameters of the start and endpixels. Hue gradient 540 shows 1 luminaire with 4 pixels. The gradienteffect for the middle pixels of gradient 540 may be a hue gradientinterpolation example for middle pixels (here as for pixels 1.2 and 1.3)used for a light parameter of any one of FIGS. 1-4 . In the case ofgradient 540, the pixels have hue gradient light parameters that can bebeneficial for lighting a scene to be imaged or filmed by a camera.

In one example, the hue gradient at IDs 1.1 to 1.4 of gradient 540 areuseful for filming a scene of exterior or outside at night on a LasVegas street where at one location, a casino sign is illuminated withyellow lights, like a circus, and at another location, next door, thesign is illuminated with Red, like a restaurant. The scene being filmedis a reverse angle of a man and woman looking from one to the other, thewoman looking predominately yellow, the man predominately red. The sceneis being filmed on location, or in a studio setting. Thus, a huegradient 540 could be used to mimic the light on their faces as they aredeciding which way they are going to go during the scene.

In this example, hue value at ID 1.1 is 360° as entered as the startpixel light parameter, and hue value at ID 1.4 is 240° as entered as theend pixel light parameter for gradient 540 to simulate or enhance colorlights in a setting similar to Las Vegas or Times Square where multiplecolors are being generated by large displays. Thus, using gradient 540to provide a luminaire that has a hue gradient to match the natural mixof these two hue sources as the start and end light parameters, andthrough the transition area of the middle pixels, creates a scene withartificial light looks like more natural lighting to the camera.

FIG. 5F is a graphical illustration of a tint gradient 550 including aninterpolated gradient effect for middle light tint gradient parametersof middle pixels based on the light tint parameters of the start and endpixels. Tint gradient 550 shows 1 luminaire with 4 pixels. The gradienteffect for the middle pixels of gradient 550 may be a tint gradientinterpolation example for middle pixels (here as for pixels 1.2 and 1.3)used for a light parameter of any one of FIGS. 1-4 . In the case ofgradient 550, the pixels have tint gradient light parameters that can bebeneficial for lighting a scene to be imaged or filmed by a camera.

In one example, the tint gradient at IDs 1.1 to 1.4 of gradient 550 areuseful for filming a scene of an exterior our outside at Home Depot andto an interior at Home Depot, when a man enters, and looks for a cart. Aluminaire using gradient 540 can be used to provide the fill of theilluminated the actors for a combination of sunlight (pure 5900K 0 tint)on one side and the interior of the store, (florescent 5600 k with +5green tint) common to cheap florescent tubes. By using tint gradient550, the fill light would look more natural.

In this example, an auto-gradient luminaire using gradient 540 can besetup with tint value for outside is 0 as entered as the end pixel lightparameter, and tint value inside is +5 green tint as entered as thestart pixel light parameter for gradient 550. Also, the same or anotherluminaire can be setup with an illumination gradient (e.g., gradient510) with start parameters of 5900K and inside illumination as the endparameter. Thus, using gradient 550 to provide a luminaire that has ating gradient to match the natural mix of these two tint sources as thestart and end light parameters, and through the transition area of themiddle pixels, creates a scene with artificial light looks like morenatural lighting to the camera.

In another example, an auto-gradient luminaire using gradients 530 and540 can be setup with hue input value at ID 1.1 is 360°, saturation atID 1.1 is 50%; hue value at ID 1.4 is 240°, saturation at ID 1.4 is 20%to simulate or enhance a color scene that uses pastel colors, perhapsthe interior of a candy store or yogurt shop.

Thus, using gradients 530 and 540 to provide a luminaire that hassaturation and hue gradients to match the natural mix of these twosaturation and hue sources as the start and end light parameters, andthrough the transition area of the middle pixels, creates a scene withartificial light looks like more natural lighting to the camera.

Although the gradients of FIGS. 5A-5F shows a certain number ofluminaire with a certain number of pixels, the concept described theremay be applied to any number of pixels within any number of luminaire.Any two or more of the gradients of FIGS. 5A to 5F can be combined by acontroller to control the pixels of one or more luminaire.

FIG. 6 is a simplified flow chart showing an operating environment or aprocess 600 for applying an auto-gradient effect across pixels of atleast one luminaire. The process 600 may be performed by one or more ofsystems 100, 200, 300 and/or 400; and may create gradients noted for oneor more of FIGS. 5A-E. The process 600 starts at 610 and can end at 660,but the process can also be cyclical as shown by the return arrow andreturn to 610 after 650. For example, the process may return to beperformed multiple times to change the auto-gradient of more than onelight parameter and/or of more than one luminaire as desired prior to orduring shooting of a scene. In some cases, 650 and 660 are notperformed. In some cases, 660 is not performed. Process 600 may be forauto-gradient combinations for pixel compensation, such as to compensatefor the artificial light source pixels.

At 610 a predetermined start light parameter for a start pixel of afirst luminaire is received. Receiving at 610 may be the controllerreceiving the start parameter from the input device, such as through aconnection.

Prior to receiving at 610, the controller may poll the system toidentify luminaires and pixels in each luminaire, such as of anauto-gradient system being used to light a scene. Prior to receiving at610, a user may have input the start and end predetermined lightparameters at an input device that outputs those parameters to thecontroller. The input device can have a graphical user interface (GUI)that allows the user to set and view the predetermined start and endlight parameters.

At 620 a predetermined end light parameter for an end pixel of the firstluminaire is received. The predetermined end light parameter may be lessthan or greater than the predetermined start light parameter. Receivingat 620 may be the controller receiving the end parameter from the inputdevice, such as through a connection.

Although 610 is shown before 620, they may occur in either order, orsimultaneously. The start and end light parameters received may be oneor more of light intensity, color temperature, CCT, saturation, hue,and/or tint.

At 630 a gradient effect for a middle light parameter of each of aplurality of middle pixels of the first luminaire is automaticallyinterpolated based on the start predetermined light parameter and theend predetermined light parameter. Automatically interpolating at 630may be the controller automatically interpolating based on or using thestart and end parameters received at 610 and 620. At 630 the middlelight parameters may be automatically and simultaneously calculated byelectronic circuitry and/or logic circuitry of the controller prior tooutputting the control signals at 640. Automatically interpolating at630 may be based on a weight for each middle pixel, a mathematicalfunction or an algorithm. Interpolating at 630 may include interpolatinga gradient effect for middle pixel light parameters that are lightintensity, color temperature, CCT, saturation, hue and/or tint gradientparameters of middle pixels based on the light intensity, colortemperature, CCT, saturation, hue and/or tint parameters based on theparameters of the start and end pixels.

Automatically interpolating at 630 may include equations and/ordescriptions at FIGS. 1-5F, such as for any number of the lightparameters. The gradient effect may be an average change across each ofthe middle pixels of the luminaire from the start predetermined lightparameter to the end predetermined light parameter. The gradient effectfor the middle light parameter of each of the plurality of middle pixelsmay be automatically interpolated to provide equality of the lightparameters to a person walking along a path, a flat surface along thepath, or two subjects along the path, such as where two ends of the pathare not equidistant from the luminaire.

In some cases, at 630 an algorithm is used to compensate one or more thelight parameters in three-dimensional space from pixel A to Z with thelinear algorithm, such as of equation (1), (2) and/or (3). In othercases, automatically interpolating at 630 may be or includeinterpolating a gradient of the light parameter(s) for the middle pixelswith a mathematical function or equation similar to equation (1) butusing non-linear, curves, radii, S-curves, exponential, and/orlogarithmic gradients based on the start predetermined light parameterand the end predetermined light parameter.

For example, interpolating at 630, can be not only interpolating theintensity (light brightness) gradients, but also CCT (warm white to coolwhite) and Color gradients. Typically, as light fills three-dimensionalspace of a scene, the effects of the source illuminations (e.g., pixels)are stuck to the physical limitations of being inversely proportional tothe square of the distance to the object being illuminated (inversesquare law). Most soft light sources or luminaire are flat asconstrained by the limitations of materials. But natural light is not soconstrained. However, the various types of auto-gradient interpolated at630 are configured so that as light fills three-dimensional space of thescene from the luminaire (e.g., controlled pixels), it can mimic naturalsources, such as sunlight on clouds, non-linear gradients, sphericalgradients, and overlying combinations thereof etc. Interpolate at 630includes interpolating gradients of one or more luminaire so that theycan be used and combined to change the way movies sets are lit onstages. In one case, interpolating at 630 is interpolating radialgradients on a large array of pixels by designating light parameters onpixel A at the center of the array and assigning light parameters onpixels at the periphery of the array as pixel Z1−Zn and allowing thecontroller to set the parameters for all middle and intermediate pixelsin the array from A−Z1 to A−Zn to be set in a radial pattern. The valueof each of pixel Z1−Zn may be different and thus each set of middle andintermediate pixels in the array from A−Z1 to A−Zn may be different. Inthis case, using the auto-gradient interpolated at 630 provides a muchmore efficient, cheaper and economic way to control the gradients of theluminaire.

Light intensity on an object and its subsequent effect on the imagesensor or a camera, is subject to the “Inverse Square Law” whereilluminance decreases by the square of the distance from the source.Illuminance=Point of illumination/distance squared. A bare light bulbemits a sphere of illuminance. The area of this sphere is 4×Pi×radiussquared, where the distance from source of illumination is a radius.Illuminating a flat surface (e.g., see FIG. 3 ) therefore would make thecenter brighter than the four corners because the radius (distance) fromthe source is longer. Illuminating a flat surface from a single sourceis a problem. The frame of the camera is rectangular. A photo of thisflat surface would “vignette” in the corners as there would be areduction of an image's brightness or saturation toward the peripherycompared to the image center. By curving multiple pixel illuminators, anauto-gradient intensity can be created that increases the brightnesstimes the difference in distance from the center squared to solve thisproblem. For instance, the start light parameter could be the intensityof the source bulb, and multiple luminaires could be setup as spokesradiating outwards to each corner of the rectangle shape with end lightparameters the are the source intensity minus the intensity of thesource at the corners of the shape, thus, lighting the flat surface witha constant equal illumination intensity.

Similarly, this idea of illuminating a “flat surface” could apply to anarea of space through with an actor is to walk. For example, the actorwalking at an angle to the light source (e.g., see FIGS. 2 and 4 ).Where he is closer to the source, he will appear brighter. Using anintensity auto-gradient set accordingly the difference from the lightsource to the actor could maintain an even exposure—and mimic thenatural light, sunlight or moonlight. The Sun and Moon are so far fromthe Earth that the slight change in distance of a few hundred yard isnot detectible to the camera. An artificial light source is much, muchcloser, so intensity gradients are required for artificial lighting tomimic natural sources.

At 640 control signals having the start, end and middle light parametersare output to the start, end and middle light pixels, respectively.Outputting at 640 may be the controller outputting these parameters tothe interface device, such as through a connection. Outputting at 640may include the interface outputting these parameters to or using theseparameters to control the light of the corresponding start, end andmiddle light pixels.

At 650 a scene with the start, end and middle light pixels using thestart, end and middle light parameters is illuminated. Illuminating at650 may include the start, end and middle light pixels outputting lightor light zones based on the control signals and/or light parametersoutput at 640.

Illuminating at 650 may be changing an illumination of a sceneilluminated using the start, end and middle light pixels base on thestart, end and middle light parameters. Illuminating at 650 may includechanging an amount of electrical power sent to the start, end and middlelight pixels based on the start, end and middle light parameters.

In some cases, 610 to 650 are performed by a luminaire device thatincludes the controller, interface and pixels. The luminaire device maybe an LED strip, an LED panel, an LED string or an LED panel. It mayhave multiple pixels equally spaced along a line, each pixel having oneor more LEDs of the colors red, green, blue (RGB), amber (A), cool whiteand/or warm white.

At 660 a camera records the illuminated scene, such as by imaging theframes in the scene over time.

CLOSING COMMENTS

Throughout this description, the embodiments and examples shown shouldbe considered as exemplars, rather than limitations on the apparatus andprocedures disclosed or claimed. Although many of the examples presentedherein involve specific combinations of method acts or system elements,it should be understood that those acts and those elements may becombined in other ways to accomplish the same objectives. With regard toflowcharts, additional and fewer steps may be taken, and the steps asshown may be combined or further refined to achieve the methodsdescribed herein. Acts, elements and features discussed only inconnection with one embodiment are not intended to be excluded from asimilar role in other embodiments.

As used herein, “plurality” means two or more. As used herein, a “set”of items may include one or more of such items. As used herein, whetherin the written description or the claims, the terms “comprising”,“including”, “carrying”, “having”, “containing”, “involving”, and thelike are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including butnot limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and“consisting essentially of”, respectively, are closed or semi-closedtransitional phrases with respect to claims. Use of ordinal terms suchas “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in the claims to modify a claimelement does not by itself connote any priority, precedence, or order ofone claim element over another or the temporal order in which acts of amethod are performed, but are used merely as labels to distinguish oneclaim element having a certain name from another element having a samename (but for use of the ordinal term) to distinguish the claimelements. As used herein, “and/or” means that the listed items arealternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of thelisted items.

It is claimed:
 1. A controller adapted to apply an auto-gradient effectacross pixels of a luminaire, the controller comprising electroniccircuitry for: automatically interpolating a gradient effect for amiddle light parameter of each of a plurality of middle pixels of theluminaire based on a predetermined start light parameter for a startpixel of the luminaire and a predetermined end light parameter for anend pixel of the luminaire, the predetermined end light parametergreater than the predetermined start light parameter; and outputtingcontrol signals to the luminaire, the control signals having the start,end and middle light parameters to the start, end and middle lightpixels, respectively.
 2. The controller of claim 1, further comprising:the start, end and middle light pixels coupled to the electroniccircuitry; the start, end and middle light pixels for illuminating ascene with the start, end and middle light parameters, wherein theluminaire is one of a LED strip or an LED string; and wherein each pixelhas at least one LED.
 3. The controller of claim 1, wherein the gradienteffect is an average light intensity change across each of the pluralityof middle pixels of the luminaire from the start predetermined lightparameter to the end predetermined light parameter.
 4. The controller ofclaim 1, wherein the start, end and middle light parameters are all oneof a light intensity, color temperature, saturation, hue, or tint. 5.The controller of claim 1, wherein the controller is located in theluminaire and is not a full pixel controller; and wherein the controllerelectronic circuitry includes logic circuitry for automatically andsimultaneously calculating the middle light parameters prior tooutputting the control signals.
 6. The controller of claim 1, furthercomprising an input device for: receiving the predetermined start lightparameter from a user; outputting the predetermined start lightparameter to the electronic circuitry; receiving the predetermined endlight parameter from the user; and outputting the predetermined endlight parameter to the electronic circuitry.
 7. The controller of claim6, wherein the input device has a graphical user interface (GUI) thatallows the user to set and view the predetermined start and end lightparameters.
 8. The controller of claim 1, wherein the luminaire is afirst luminaire, the controller electronic circuitry further for:receiving a predetermined intermediate light parameter for anintermediate pixel of the first luminaire; the predeterminedintermediate light parameter less than the start and less than the endpredetermined light parameters; automatically interpolating a firstgradient effect for a middle light parameter of each of a firstplurality of middle pixels of the first luminaire that are between thestart pixel and the intermediate pixel based on the start predeterminedlight parameter and the intermediate predetermined light parameter;automatically interpolating a second gradient effect for a middle lightparameter of each of a second plurality of middle pixels of the firstluminaire that are between the intermediate pixel and the end pixelbased on the intermediate predetermined light parameter and the endpredetermined light parameter; outputting first control signals havingthe start, intermediate and first middle light parameters to the start,intermediate and first middle light pixels, respectively; and outputtingsecond control signals having the end and second middle light parametersto the end and second middle light pixels, respectively.
 9. Thecontroller of claim 1, wherein the gradient effect for the middle lightparameter of each of the plurality of middle pixels is automaticallyinterpolated to provide equal illumination to one of: a person walkingalong a path; a flat surface along the path, or two subjects along thepath; wherein ends of the path are not equidistant from the luminaire.10. A system for applying an auto-gradient effect across pixels of atleast two luminaire, the system comprising: a first controller, thefirst controller has first electronic circuitry for: automaticallyinterpolating a first gradient effect for a middle light parameter ofeach of a plurality of middle pixels of a first luminaire based on apredetermined start light parameter for a start pixel of a firstluminaire and a predetermined intermediate light parameter for an endpixel of the first luminaire, the predetermined end light parametergreater than the predetermined start light parameter of the firstluminaire; and outputting first control signals to the first luminaire,the first control signals having the start, intermediate and middlelight parameters to the start, end and middle light pixels of the firstluminaire, respectively; a second controller, the second controller hassecond electronic circuitry for: automatically interpolating a secondgradient effect for a middle light parameter of each of a plurality ofmiddle pixels of a second luminaire based on a predetermined start lightparameter for a start pixel of a second luminaire and a predeterminedintermediate light parameter for an end pixel of the second luminaire,the predetermined end light parameter greater than the predeterminedstart light parameter of the second luminaire; and outputting secondcontrol signals to the second luminaire, the second control signalshaving the intermediate, end and middle light parameters to the start,end and middle light pixels of the second luminaire, respectively. 11.The system of claim 10, the first luminaire further comprising: thestart, end and middle light pixels of the first luminaire coupled to thefirst electronic circuitry and for illuminating a scene with the start,intermediate and middle light parameters of the first luminaire; thesecond luminaire further comprising: the start, end and middle lightpixels of the second luminaire coupled to the second electroniccircuitry and for illuminating the scene with the end, intermediate andmiddle light parameters of the second luminaire; the system furthercomprising a camera for recording the illuminated scene; wherein thefirst and second luminaire are one of a LED strip, an LED panel, or anLED string; wherein each pixel has at least three LEDs that include red,green, blue and amber LED emitters; wherein the plurality of middlepixels are at least 5 middle pixels.
 12. The system of claim 10, furthercomprising an input device coupled to the first and second luminairefor: receiving the predetermined start light parameter from a user;outputting the predetermined start light parameter to the firstcontroller; receiving the predetermined intermediate light parameterfrom the user; outputting the predetermined intermediate light parameterto the first and second controller; receiving the predetermined endlight parameter from the user; and outputting the predetermined endlight parameter to the second controller.
 13. A method for applying anauto-gradient effect across pixels of at least one luminaire, the methodcomprising: automatically interpolating a gradient effect for a middlelight parameter of each of a plurality of middle pixels of the firstluminaire based on a predetermined start light parameter for a startpixel of a first luminaire and a predetermined end light parameter foran end pixel of the first luminaire, the predetermined end lightparameter greater than the predetermined start light parameter; andoutputting control signals having the start, end and middle lightparameters to the start, end and middle light pixels, respectively. 14.The method of claim 13, further comprising: illuminating a scene withthe start, end and middle light pixels using the start, end and middlelight parameters; and recording the illuminated scene with a camera. 15.The method of claim 14, wherein interpolating, outputting andilluminating are performed by the same device; wherein the device is oneof a LED strip, an LED panel, or an LED string; and wherein each pixelhas at least one LED.
 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising:changing an illumination of a scene illuminated using the start, end andmiddle light pixels base on the start, end and middle light parameters;and recording the changed illuminated scene with a camera.
 17. Themethod of claim 13, wherein the gradient effect is an average lightintensity change across each of the plurality of middle pixels of theluminaire from the start predetermined light parameter to the endpredetermined light parameter.
 18. The method of claim 13, wherein thestart, end and middle light parameters are all one of a light intensity,color temperature, saturation, hue, or tint.
 19. The method of claim 13,further comprising: the controller polling the system to identifyluminaires and pixels in each luminaire: receiving the predeterminedstart light parameter from a user at an input device; outputting thepredetermined start light parameter to the controller; receiving thepredetermined end light parameter from the user at the input device; andoutputting the predetermined end light parameter to the controller. 20.The method of claim 13, wherein the gradient effect for the middle lightparameter of each of the plurality of middle pixels is automaticallyinterpolated to provide equal illumination to one of: a person walkingalong a path; a flat surface along the path, or two subjects along thepath; wherein two ends of the path are not equidistant from theluminaire.